Raptors’ Barnes Earns NBA Defensive Player of the Month Award
Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors has been recognized as the NBA’s Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month for October-November 2025. This marks a significant achievement, as he becomes the first player from the Raptors to earn this accolade since the award’s inception.
Barnes’ Impact on Raptors’ Defense
This season, Barnes has been a cornerstone for the Raptors, contributing to their strong start with a record of 14 wins and 7 losses. His defensive skills have positioned the team near the top of various defensive statistics. According to Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, Barnes’s success stems from his hard work, dedication, and thorough understanding of the game.
Coach’s Praise for Barnes
Rajakovic expressed his admiration for Barnes’s continuous improvement in all aspects of his game. He emphasized that teamwork plays a crucial role in individual achievements, stating, “You cannot do anything without your supporting cast.” Rajakovic also hinted at further potential in Barnes’s development.
Season Statistics
Throughout the first 21 games of the season, Barnes has shown impressive numbers:
- Points per game: 19.9
- Rebounds per game: 8
- Assists per game: 5
- Combined steals and blocks: 64 (tied for the most in the NBA)
Notably, he secured a thrilling victory against the Charlotte Hornets on November 17 with a crucial block at the buzzer.
Defensive Skills Highlighted
Rajakovic commended Barnes’s defensive awareness, particularly his ability to protect the rim and create deflections. His knack for recognizing defensive situations has made him a standout player on that end of the court.
Other Awards in the NBA
In the Western Conference, Cason Wallace of the Oklahoma City Thunder received the equivalent defensive honor. Despite his impressive team’s performance, Rajakovic did not win the Eastern Conference Coach of the Month award, which went to J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons. He remained focused on his team’s growth, stressing a commitment to continuous improvement.
The Raptors’ strong performance and Barnes’s achievement reflect their collective ambition to enhance their game as the season progresses. With the right support and hard work, more successes may be on the horizon.
